Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth, restoring the ability to eat normally with teeth that appear natural and facial contours that are preserved.
What are dental implants?
Implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth-root substitutes. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant, providing stable anchors for replacement teeth.
Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
The surgical procedure
For most patients, placement involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within the jawbone. For the first three to six months, the implants sit beneath the surface of the gums and gradually bond with the jawbone. During this time you should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet while your replacement teeth are formed.
Once the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Bureau uncovers the implants and attaches small posts that protrude through the gums to act as anchors for the artificial teeth. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen. The entire process usually takes six to eight months, with most patients experiencing minimal disruption to daily life.
What types of prosthesis are available?
A single prosthesis (crown) replaces one missing tooth, with each prosthetic tooth attaching to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw; the number of implants varies depending on whether a removable or fixed prosthesis is recommended. A removable prosthesis (overdenture) attaches to a bar or ball-socket attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.
Dr. Bureau performs in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite to optimize sterility. Inpatient hospital surgery is reserved for patients with special medical or anesthetic needs, or those who require extensive bone grafting from the hip or tibia.
Why dental implants?
Losing several teeth, whether recent or long-standing, is something few people ever become fully accustomed to. The concept of implant-based oral rehabilitation was developed more than 45 years ago by Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark, whose pioneering research opened the door for millions facing the frustration of tooth loss.
Why choose implants over traditional restorations?
There are several reasons. Implants avoid sacrificing the structure of healthy surrounding teeth to bridge a space. They also remove the inconvenience of taking out a denture or partial at night, and the discomfort of dentures that slip.
Are you a candidate for implants?
If you are considering implants, your mouth will be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, options to improve the outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The majority of dental implant and bone graft procedures can be performed in the office, with or without general anesthesia or sedation.
Do implants need special care?
Once in place, implants require daily oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and regular appointments with your dental specialists.
Implant and bone graft complications
Although implants and bone grafting have been performed successfully for decades, a small percentage of cases experience minor complications such as infection, which can usually be treated with antibiotics. In rare instances a major complication can occur where the bone graft or implant is lost. These risks are explained in detail during your consultation with Dr. Bureau.